Slab Creek Reservoir lies in a deep gorge in the
upper South Fork of the American River in El
Dorado County. The South Fork American River is
one of the most popular whitewater rivers in the
western half of the United States. Slab Creek
Reservoir is a fabulous paddling destination
that not many people know about. Only an hour’s
driving time from Sacramento, it is a must see
retreat for paddling enthusiasts who enjoy flat
water in a peaceful atmosphere, void of all
motorized water vessels.
Nestled at the base of a deep canyon, this
long and narrow reservoir bears a striking
resemblance to Clementine Lake, located in
Foresthill, California. The diverse
landscape provides exquisite sights and
outstanding photographic opportunities. This
shallow, river-like reservoir is lined with
groves of pine as it winds through canyons
framed by massive walls of granite, with an
occasional waterfall breaking away from the
bank.
The Forebay Road put-in on the eastern end
of Slab Creek Reservoir is located just
outside of Pollock Pines. The eastern put-in
is affected by both the reservoir’s water
level and the inflow, which is the result of
diversions controlled by SMUD for power
generation. The reservoir’s water level
drops during the summer months. At low water
levels, you will have to portage your kayak
through a shallow stream bed to reach the
water. It is better to launch at the eastern
put in when the water level is high to avoid
carrying your kayak over a rocky creek bed.
Also, anticipate paddling against afternoon
winds and the current on the return trip, if
you launch from the eastern end of the
reservoir.
The terrain is almost impassible on both
sides of the reservoir, unless you want to
hike through steep, poison oak covered
terrain. There is limited shoreline fishing
access, but it is a fabulous spot for
fishing from your kayak for rainbow and
brown t
rout,
pike minnow and bass. Kayak anglers can take
pleasure in reeling in pike minnow, which
can be very aggressive and fun to catch
.
